Throughout the year, we present an article in the bulletin each week on a variety of topics, written by a member of our Parish staff on a rotating basis.

Spiritual Reflection

by Gwen Heithaus, Coordinator of Religious Education

What is your family centered around? What is the foundation that sustains your family unit? 

Everyday we have the ability to make choices that set us up for success. The purpose of Families in Faith is to help our community create Christ-centered families so that we can find joy in all areas of our lives, especially as we interact in our families. Through fellowship and community found at our gatherings each quarter, as well as in the sharing of ideas for growing in faith, we are building a culture here at St. Margaret of the importance of Christ-centered families. Take a look at some of the ideas below to help your family grow in faith and community this month!

1. Jesus himself says, “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” (Matthew 6:3). This Valentine’s Day, is there someone you can share a kind note or special treat with without letting them know who it is from? Sometimes it is giving without receiving any credit that helps us feel the true joy that comes from seeing someone else smile. 
2. February is Black History Month here in the United States. Use the Tiny Saints app to learn more about our Black saints, including St. Josephine Bakhita, St. Martin de Porres, and Servant of God Thea Bowman. Perhaps you can add their pictures to your family’s prayer space/table!
3. Lent begins on Wednesday, February 14. Please be sure to attend Mass for Ash Wednesday! What goals are you setting for yourself during Lent? Is there a family goal you would like to set? Maybe you all agree to fast from the same thing. You could also work together to think of an organization you would like to give alms to. Having a community of people there to support you in your Lenten mission helps make it easier to achieve. 
4. What kind of prayer are you going to incorporate in your home during Lent? The iBreviary app is full of daily prayers and devotions that can be said as a family. My husband’s family gathers for Sunday dinner each week, and some Sundays we pray night prayer together. This part of the Liturgy of the Hours is easy to pray through, and I take great comfort in it. You might pick one day a week that you pray one of the Liturgy of the Hours during Lent!

Please know that I am praying for you as we begin this new month. Be sure to join us at 7:00 pm on March 14 for our next Families in Faith gathering!